The Sumi Community Merhulietsa, Kohima, marked its Silver Jubilee on September 13, 2025, at Molu-Ki Hall, Merhulietsa Colony, Kohima. Y Kikheto Sema, IAS, Principal Secretary, Law & Justice, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland, graced the occasion as the Special Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Kikheto Sema stated that the essence of a jubilee is to “forgive and forget,” which paves the way for unity and peaceful coexistence. Acknowledging Merhulietsa as one of the smallest among Kohima’s 19 colonies, he urged its members to remain united, remember the pioneers who laid its foundation, and uphold the values of responsible citizenship.
He reminded the community that a strong sense of belonging is essential, particularly while residing in the state capital. Highlighting the significant role of the Sumi community in the formation of Kohima district, he noted that the Sumi, being one of the largest Naga tribes, are bonded with 14 out of the 17 Naga tribes—except Konyak, Phom, and Khiamniungan—but are connected to all tribes through intermarriage and blood ties.
Reflecting on history, Kikheto recalled that during the colonial era, Nagaland was divided into the Kohima ilaqa, Mokokchung ilaqa, and the Tuensang NEFA, where the Sumi contributed significantly due to their central geographical position. He highlighted that as early as 1907, Sumi Christians held congregations in Kohima Mission Church, and in 1921, with the permission of missionary JE Tanquist, they established their own church at Daklane in 1925. This year, 2025, marks the Centenary Jubilee of the Sumi Church in Kohima. He also announced that a combined Christmas celebration of all denominations of Sumi will be held in Kohima this year.
Citing further contributions, particularly by the Sumi Aphuyemi Community, he said that between 1930 and 1939, they played an active role in building Kohima’s infrastructure. He recalled how the community volunteered for three days of labor in earth-cutting and stone-breaking for the construction of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and the present Naga Hospital (initially planned as a school by the British). They also contributed to Kohima High School for three days, the present New Secretariat Complex (formerly a British airfield) for four days, public grounds for three days, Kohima Mission Center for three days, and the Kohima–Dimapur road, where Sumi volunteers worked on the 10th and 11th mile Zubza stretches for 10 days. He emphasized that the contributions of the Sumi community to the growth and development of Kohima cannot be ignored.
Speaking on the motto of the Sumi Community Merhulietsa, “Social Upliftment,” Kikheto explained that it refers to collective efforts aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged groups through education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and justice. Stressing that social justice is the need of the hour, he drew attention to the challenges faced by the Northern Sumi, who continue to struggle economically, politically, and socially without basic facilities. He appealed to the community, civil society, and the church to extend support, and urged everyone to embrace the spirit of togetherness.
